Most gearheads don’t need much of an introduction to “Group B” rally racing; a special category from the golden era of rally. From 1982 to 1986 the ruleset was designed to entire manufacturers into rallying, and the result were some of the most powerful and dangerous rally cars ever built.
This short film is set in 1986 at the peak of Group B rallying. It is a fictional account of the protagonist Shane piloting an MG Metro 6R4, who is trying to ‘come back’ after an accident that claimed the life of his co-driver. Driver and spectator deaths were not uncommon during the Group B era..
The Metro 6R4 was inspired by the all-conquering Audi Quattro as well as the Renault R5 Turbo with its mid-engine layout. The MG was successful in all other categories of rallying, as it’s naturally-aspirated 3.0 L V6 engine only produced 400 HP, unlike the turbocharged Group B cars with power ranging from 500 HP to 600 HP and no electronic driver aids.
Directed and co-written by Nick Rowland, the short was shown at film festivals around the world and starred Richard Madden from Game of Thrones. It’s easy to find it on YouTube if you have 25 minutes to watch a fast film that’s more about angst and self-doubt that CGI racing scenes.
Definitely worth watching, for a glimpse of the long-gone era.
This short came up to my Youtube suggestions a while ago. It is really good, I enjoyed it.
Its not a go-fast fil. More of a slow burn. Watching the driver trying to overcome a tragedy.
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It gives us as viewers insight into the human cost of Group B rally racing.